High density protein crystal growth

ABSTRACT

A protein crystal growth assembly including a crystal growth cell and further including a cell body having a top side and a bottom side and a first aperture defined therethrough, the cell body having opposing first and second sides and a second aperture defined therethrough. A cell barrel is disposed within the cell body, the cell barrel defining a cavity alignable with the first aperture of the cell body, the cell barrel being rotatable within the second aperture. A reservoir is coupled to the bottom side of the cell body and a cap having a top side is disposed on the top side of the cell body.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.60/095,984, filed Aug. 10, 1998, and U.S. Provisional Application No.60/139,551, filed Jun. 16, 1999.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for conductingexperiments for growing a large number of protein crystals.

2. Description of Related Art

Due to advances in the protein crystal growth (PCG) field, it has becomeapparent that current experiment configurations no longer fully utilizethe available experiment volume of space shuttle orbitor flightincubators. Additionally, conventional experimental hardware is notconducive to the long duration micro-gravity flights available aboardthe International Space Station (ISS). In addition, conventional systemscannot freely utilize the limited space, power requirements anddown-link flight telemetry systems available aboard the InternationalSpace Station or Space Shuttle Orbitor.

It can be seen that there is a need for a method and apparatus forprotein crystal growth that can fully utilize the confined experimentvolume available on space shuttle orbitors and space stations.

It can also be seen that there is a need for experimental hardware thatis conducive to long duration micro-gravity flights aboard theInternational Space Station.

It can also be seen that there is a need to more freely utilize thelimited space, power requirements and down-ink flight telemetry systemsavailable aboard the International Space Station or Space ShuttleOrbitor.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To overcome the limitations of the related art described above, and toovercome other limitations that will become apparent upon reading andunderstanding the present specification, the present invention relatesto an apparatus, system and method for conducting experiments forgrowing a large number of protein crystals designed to fit in a singlelocker space incubator.

One aspect of the invention provides a protein crystal growth assembly.The protein crystal growth assembly includes a crystal growth cell. Thecrystal growth cell further includes a cell body having a top side and abottom side and a first aperture defined therethrough, the cell bodyhaving opposing first and second sides and a second aperture definedtherethrough. A cell barrel is disposed within the cell body, the cellbarrel defining a cavity alignable with the first aperture of the cellbody, the cell barrel being rotatable within the second aperture. Areservoir is coupled to the bottom side of the cell body and a caphaving a top side is disposed on the top side of the cell body.

Another aspect of the invention provides a protein crystal growth trayassembly. The protein crystal growth tray assembly includes a trayadapted to hold a protein crystal growth assembly; a securing mechanismholding the protein crystal growth assembly in place in the tray; anengaging mechanism provided on the tray, the engaging mechanism coupledwith the protein crystal growth assembly; and a pivot assembly coupledto the engaging mechanism for moving the protein crystal growth assemblybetween two positions by operation of the pivot assembly.

A further aspect of invention provides a protein crystal growthincubator assembly. The protein crystal growth incubator assemblyincludes a housing having interior and exterior sides defining aninternal storage compartment; and a stacked protein crystal growth trayconfiguration slideable into and out of the internal storagecompartment, the stacked protein crystal growth tray configurationholding one or more protein crystal growth tray assemblies.

Yet another aspect of the invention provides a protein crystal growthcommand and monitoring system. The protein crystal growth command andmonitoring system includes a chassis having interior and exterior sides,the chassis housing a video monitoring and translation mechanism; aprotein crystal growth tray assembly having protein crystal growthassemblies disposed therein, the tray assembly arranged within theinterior side of the chassis for video monitoring of the protein crystalgrowth cells; a video camera assembly for monitoring the protein crystalgrowth assemblies; a translation mechanism arranged on the chassis andcoupled to the video camera assembly for positioning the video cameraassembly above the protein crystal tray assembly; and a controllerproviding control signals to the translation mechanism for controllingthe translation and positioning of the video camera.

Still another aspect of the invention provides, in a protein crystalgrowth assembly including a cell body having a top side and a bottomside and a first aperture defined therethrough, the cell body havingopposed first and second sides and a second aperture definedtherethrough; a cell barrel disposed within the cell body, the cellbarrel defining a cavity alignable with the first aperture of the cellbody; a reservoir coupled to the bottom side of the cell body, the cellbarrel being rotatable within the second aperture; a protein cell insertdisposed within the cavity of the cell barrel, the protein cell inserthaving an inner portion and an outer portion wherein the inner portiondefines a well; and a cap having a top side disposed on the top side ofthe cell body. Another aspect of the invention further includes a methodof growing protein crystals. The method includes rotating the cellbarrel, to orient the growth cell in a fill/removal position; loading apremixed protein in the protein cell insert of a growth cell assembly;securing the premixed protein in the protein insert; rotating the cellbarrel to a launch configuration position; at a predetermined time,rotating the cell barrel to a position to activate an experiment byplacing the growth cell in a growth position; and at a secondpredetermined time, rotating the cell barrel to a position to deactivatethe experiment by placing the growth cell in the fill/removal position.

These and various other features of novelty as well as advantages whichcharacterize the invention are pointed out with particularity in theclaims annexed hereto and form a part hereof. However, for a betterunderstanding of the invention reference should be made to the drawingswhich form a further part hereof, and to accompanying descriptivematter, in which there are illustrated and described specific examplesof an apparatus in accordance with the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring now to the drawings in which like reference numbers representcorresponding parts throughout, where:

FIG. 1 illustrates an example of one embodiment of a protein crystalgrowth cell assembly;

FIGS. 2A-D illustrate examples of various views and components of oneembodiment of a protein crystal growth cell assembly;

FIGS. 3A-C illustrate examples of various embodiments of a single highDensity protein crystal growth (HDPCG) tray assembly;

FIGS. 4A-D illustrate examples of various embodiments of a single HDPCGsample tray and stacked tray configurations;

FIGS. 5A-B illustrate examples of embodiments of a HDPCG apparatusinstalled in a Commercial Refrigeration Incubator Module-Modified(CRIM-M);

FIG. 6A illustrates one example of one embodiment of a method ofactivating/deactivating a tray and a commercial protein crystal growth(CPCG) actuator handle in its extended position engaging the pivotassembly of the tray;

FIG. 6B illustrates one example of one embodiment of a pivot assemblypivot rotation;

FIGS. 6C-D illustrate one example of one embodiment of anActivation/Deactivation tool and incubator assembly;

FIG. 7 illustrates one view of one embodiment of a high density proteincrystal growth cell assembly;

FIG. 8 illustrates one view of one embodiment of a precipitant (PPT)reservoir and protein crystal growth cell assembly;

FIG. 9 illustrates one view of one embodiment of a protein crystalgrowth cell assembly illustrating an example of a high density accesscap.

FIG. 10A illustrates a sectional view of one example of one embodimentof a protein crystal growth cell assembly in its fill/removal position;

FIG. 10B illustrates a sectional view of one example of embodiment of asingle protein crystal growth cell assembly in its fill/removalposition;

FIG. 11A illustrates a sectional view of one example of one embodimentof a protein crystal growth cell assembly in its growth position;

FIG. 11B illustrates a sectional view of one example of embodiment of .asingle protein crystal growth cell assembly in its growth position;

FIGS. 12A-C illustrate examples of various embodiments of a protein cellinsert;

FIG. 13 illustrates one example of one embodiment of a protein crystalgrowth cell assembly in a launch configuration and direction of acorresponding launch G-Force vector;

FIG. 14 illustrates a block diagram of one example of one embodiment ofa video command and monitoring system (VCMS) controller;

FIGS. 15A-B illustrate examples of embodiments of a VCMS chassis and aVCMS controller;

FIGS. 16A-F illustrate several views of one example of one embodiment ofa translating video camera assembly and components;

FIG. 17 illustrates an example of a diagram of a video camera growthcell coverage area;

FIG. 18 illustrates one example of one embodiment of a VCMS chassis fora commercial protein crystal growth-V (CPCG-V) with hot wall removed forclarity;

FIG. 19 illustrates one example of one embodiment of a VCMS controllerfor CPCG-V with top panel removed;

FIGS. 20A-B illustrate examples embodiments of a stepper motor andencoder;

FIG. 21 illustrates one example context diagram of a VCMS;

FIG. 22 illustrates one example of VCMS Input Output Subsystem (IOS)Computer Software Component (CSC) diagram;

FIG. 23 illustrates one example of a VCMS IOS diagram;

FIG. 24 illustrates a functional block diagram of one example of oneembodiment of a VCMS controller;

FIG. 25 illustrates a functional block diagram of one example of oneembodiment of a VCMS controller;

FIG. 26 and 27 illustrate examples of flow diagrams of one embodiment ofa HDPCG/VCMS operational scenario;

FIG. 28 illustrates one example of one embodiment of a code designationsystem; and

FIGS. 29A-B illustrate front and rear views, respectively, of oneexample of one embodiment of an express rack HDPCG/VCMS configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

In the following description of the specific embodiments, reference ismade to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in whichis shown by way of illustration the specific embodiments in which theinvention may be practiced. It is to be understood that otherembodiments may be utilized as changes may be made without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the present invention.

In one embodiment the present invention provides a CommercialRefrigerator Incubator Module-Modified (CRIM-M) for utilization in earlyflights of the Space Shuttle Orbitor.

In one embodiment the present invention provides a CommercialRefrigerator Incubator Module-Modified (CRIM-M) for utilization in earlyflights of the Space Shuttle Orbitor providing an internal storagecompartment having a width of about 10 inches, a height of about 7inches and a depth of about 17 inches for storing a stacked proteincrystal growth tray configuration according to the present invention.

In another embodiment the present invention provides a next generationthermal carrier (NGTC), to be utilized when mid-deck modifications tothe Space Shuttle Orbitor are completed. The high density proteincrystal growth system (HDPCG) and video command and monitoring system(VCMS) of this embodiment are designed to complement each other. Theexperiment configurations for the HDPCG/VCMS will be compatible with theplanned EXPRESS Rack available accommodations. Finally, the HDPCG growthsamples will be easily accessible to crew members for harvesting, frozenstorage, or other accommodations.

In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides a newgeneration of PCG hardware in order to freely utilize the limited space,power requirements, down-link flight telemetry data, and other early ISSlimitations. Growth chambers, in this embodiment will include additionaldesign considerations such as: (1) fit inside the Next GenerationThermal Carrier; (2) hold a large quantity of samples; (3) allow vapordiffusion, batch, & liquid to liquid (L/L) crystal growth methodstogether in one incubator; (4) make it easy to harvest crystals while inorbit; (5) provide video images of samples; (6) be automated from Earthbased stations; (7) utilize conventional materials; (8) hold 10-50micro-liter samples minimum; and (9) be accessible enough tocryogenically preserve the crystals while in orbit.

Other embodiments include easy transfer to a X-ray crystallographyfacility (XCF) Crystal Preparation Prime Item (CPPI) and sample volumesconsistent with previous vapor diffusion apparatus (VDA) typeexperiments.

Although crystal adhesion to the sides of a well defined by an interiorportion of a protein cell insert may present problems, one solution isto possibly coat the walls defining the well with an oil such as animmersion oil, for example, that may be used to reduce the chance ofcrystal adhesion to the side walls of the protein well if necessary.

The following is a list of some of the distinct aspects of the presentinvention, whereby:

1. Crystals may be viewed through an optically clear access cap withouthaving to open the sealed container and exposing the fragile crystals tothe ambient environment;

2. Up to 1008 cells may be accessed individually without risking harm toother cells in the immediate area;

3. Each individual cell is isolated from the environment by double“O-ring” containment to ensure sealing during in-orbit operations;

4. Individual protein inserts used in the cell barrel of the proteincrystal growth assembly are designed to hold volumes consistent withground based experiments;

5. The protein inserts may be made of molded LEXAN and can be modifiedindividually to hold volumes ranging from 10 micro-liters (μl) to 40micro-liters (μl);

6. The protein inserts are designed to facilitate easy harvesting byhaving a high surface finish wall and a 6 degree taper;

7. The protein inserts have a sharp pinning angle at the top to keep theprotein solution from “creeping” up the sides in a micro-gravityenvironment;

8. The cell barrel used in the protein crystal growth assembly isdesigned to rotate in up to four different orientations. There are twolaunch configuration positions (depending on whether the Incubator islocated in the Space Shuttle): a loading/harvesting position, and agrowth position;

9. The cell barrel can be rotated in an orientation whereby the SpaceShuttle launch “G-force” keeps the protein solution in the ProteinInsert and will not let it “creep” out during the ascent;

10. The cell barrel can be rotated in an orientation that will beconducive to accomodating Space Shuttle landing loads, thus assuringthat during the occasional “hard landing” the protein crystals andsolution will stay intact;

11. The PPT reservoir used in the protein crystal growth assembly isdesigned to use a Chromex Barrier, which keeps the ½ milliliterreservoir solution from “creeping out” during Space Shuttle Launch andwhile in a micro-gravity environment;

12. growth cell blocks can be activated in smaller groups, e.g. groupsof 21, instead of all at once. This is helpful if proteins havedifferent growing cycles during a given mission;

13. The individual growth cell blocks can be removed from the sampletray very easily without disturbing the others. This is beneficial priorto the Space Shuttle Launch when a “Launch Scrub” requires only certainproteins to be reloaded;

14. The experimental apparatus can operate properly under one G-force;and

15. The experimental apparatus can operate during International SpaceStation operations, Space Shuttle operations, and other micro-gravityoperations.

High Density Protein Crystal Growth (HDPCG) System Description

The HDPCG system is the first phase of a 3 phase program for commercialprotein crystal growth (CPCG). This system will utilize the apparatusfor the protein crystal growth mechanism for the program. The secondphase comprises the HDPCG and the VCMS system. This system will be usedto help evaluate protein crystal size, location and potential for X-raydata collection. The third phase of the program will be an X-raycrystallography facility (XCF). This XCF system will collect X-ray datasets on the protein samples grown in the HDPCG apparatus, which will beassessed and selected utilizing the VCMS system.

The HDPCG Experiment Assembly includes, for example, 1008 individualgrowth cells stored within sample trays. This apparatus is then placedinto a thermal control facility in order to maintain the temperaturesrequired by the experiment. The first generation HDPCG experimentassembly will utilize vapor diffusion as the process for protein crystalgrowth, with other methods of crystal growth to follow.

Turning now to FIG. 1, one embodiment of a protein crystal growth cellassembly 10 comprises a cell body 12, cell barrel 14, protein inserts16, PPT Reservoirs 18, chromex barriers 20, hex head access caps 22,O-rings 24 and a Spur Gear 26. The cell body 12 and cell barrel 14 aremachined from clear Polysulfone P1700. A molded LEXAN version could beused to reduce cost and allow the experimenter the ability to keep thehardware after each mission. The cell barrel 14 is designed to rotatewithin the cell body 12 in order to activate/deactivate the experimentand to seal the protein within the assembly when in launch configuration28. As shown in FIG. 2A, this may accomplished by using the spur gear26, that may be manufactured from a synthetic resin such as Delrin, forexample. During launch, the growth cell assembly 10 may experience aG-Force as indicated by G-Force vector 30. The spur gear 26 is locatedon one end of the growth cell assembly 10 and it is designed tointerface with a 26 gear 48 (FIG. 3A, for example a tooth pitch gear) ona sample tray assembly 43 (FIG. 3A), so that the samples can beactivated, or deactivated simultaneously.

Located within the cell barrel 14 are six protein inserts 16 wherepremixed proteins are loaded. As illustrated in FIG. 2B the ProteinInsert 16 has a tapered well 32 and a 90° pinning angle 34 to restrictthe protein drops from wicking out of the well while in a micro-gravityenvironment. Different size options can be provided to the experimenter,for example a 40 μl and a 20 μl version.

Illustrated in FIG. 2C is one embodiment of a hex head access cap 38that is used to seal the protein environment from the outside. The hexhead access caps 38 can be designed for cooperation with the XCF crystalpreparation prime item (CPPI) robotics for remote access. Also includedare double O-ring containment 36 to prevent leakage of the proteinsolution during the experiment. The protein inserts 16 and hex headaccess caps 38 can be made of optical grade LEXAN. This allows a levelof clarity as needed for the VCMS during the second phase of thecommercial protein crystal growth (CPCG) HDPCG program.

FIG. 2D illustrates embodiments of six PPT reservoirs 18 located on thecell body 12. The PPT reservoirs 18 can be made from molded clearPolysulfone P1700. Each PPT reservoir 18 houses a chromex barrier 20 inorder to contain the protein precipitant and is designed to provide easyaccess. Once the premixed proteins are loaded and secured, the cellbarrel 14 is turned 90° for launch configuration 28.

FIG. 3A illustrates one embodiment of a HDPCG sample tray assembly 43with a hinged lid 244 in the open position. A HDPCG experiment assemblyis capable of housing several, for example up to four, sample trayassemblies 43 at a time. The sample tray assemblies 43 are designed tosecure the growth cell assemblies 10 during an experiment. Each sampletray assembly 43 may have a hinged lid 244, which is used to lock thegrowth cell assemblies 10 into place and thus allows for the ease ofloading and unloading samples.

Each sample tray assembly 43 is capable of securing 42, growth cellassemblies 10 (21 on each side). All 21 growth cell assemblies 10 oneach side are activated/deactivated together by the push/pull movementof the geared rack 46 and 26 gear 48 that engages each individual spurgear 26 of the growth cell assemblies 10. The growth cell assemblies 10rest in tray 41. This allows the total number of samples to be as muchas 252 per tray 43 (for a total of 1008 on four trays) for the apparatuswhere previous University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) crystal growthexperiments were limited to approximately 128. Pivot assembly 47activates 21 growth cell assemblies per side. There are two pivotassemblies 47 per sample tray 43.

FIGS. 3B and 4A illustrate one embodiment of a HDPCG Sample TrayAssembly 43 with a lid assembly 244 in a closed position. The sampletray assembly 43 further includes captive screws 52 to secure the trays.There are 42 growth cell assemblies 10 per tray 41 at a weight of about3.7 lbs. per tray with the weight of the tray 41 being about 1.8 lbs.The lid assembly 244 weighs about 0.57 lbs.

FIG. 3C illustrates another embodiment of a HDPCG sample tray assembly42 with a hinged lid 44 in the open position. The HDPCG ExperimentAssembly is capable of housing several, for example up to four, sampletray assemblies 42 at a time. The sample tray assemblies 42 are designedto secure the growth cell assemblies 10 during an experiment. Eachsample tray assembly 42 has a hinged lid 44, which is used to lock thegrowth cell assemblies 10 into place and thus allows for the ease ofloading and unloading samples.

FIG. 4A is another view of one embodiment of a sample tray assembly 43with its hinged lid 244 in a closed position. As illustrated in FIG. 4Bone embodiment of a sample tray assembly 43 may be arranged in a stackedtray assembly configuration 250 designed to slide in and out of aprotein crystal growth incubator assembly such as a CommercialRefrigeration Incubator Module-Modified 63 (CRIM-M) (FIG. 5). For easyaccess slides (for example of Delrin) are provided on either side of theinside portion of the CRIM-M, thus permitting removal of the sample trayassemblies 43 individually, for example for future transfer to the VCMS.The stacked tray configuration 250 further includes a hot side wall 254,a rear stop 256, an internal structure assembly 258 and cold side wall260.

In one specific example, there are four tray assemblies 43 in eachCRIM-M 63 (FIG. 5) at 6.00 lbs. each for a total weight of 24.00 lbs.The internal structure assembly 258 weighs about 3.90 lbs. The totalExperiment Weight is about 27.90 lbs.

FIG. 4C is yet another view of one embodiment of a sample tray assembly42 with its hinged lid 44 in a closed position. As illustrated in FIG.4D one embodiment of a sample tray assembly 42 may be arranged in astacked tray assembly configuration 50 designed to slide in and out of aCommercial Refrigeration Incubator Module-Modified 63 (CRIM-M) (FIG. 5).The stacked tray configuration 50 further includes a hot side wall 54, arear stop 56, an internal structure assembly 58 and cold side wall 60.

Illustrated in FIG. 5A is one embodiment of a HDPCG stacked trayassembly Configuration 250 installed inside of a CommercialRefrigeration Incubator Module-Modified 63 (CRIM-M). The CRIM-M 63 is asingle locker thermal control facility, similar to that used in earlyISS Development. This apparatus fits into the CRIM-M 63 in a similarmanner as previous crystal growth experiments, for example VaporDiffusion Apparatus 2 (VDA-2), Commercial Vapor Diffusion Apparatus(CVDA) and Protein Crystallization Facility (PCF). The CRIM-M 63provides a Crew Interface 264 required for setting the temperatureprofiles and monitoring the state of the system for the experiment. Inaddition, the CRIM-M 63 provides an internal storage compartment 65, aretainer door assembly 266, foam insulation 67 and door 70.

Illustrated in FIG. 5B is another embodiment of a HDPCG stacked trayassembly configuration 50 installed in a Commercial RefrigerationIncubator Module 62 (C-RIM) 62. The CRIM 62 provides a crew interface 64required for setting the temperature profiles and monitoring the stateof the system for the experiment. In addition, the CRIM 62 provides aretainer door assembly 66.

As illustrated in FIG. 6A, one embodiment of a HDPCG experiment iseasily activated, or deactivated by the use of the commercial proteincrystal growth (CPCG) actuator handle 71. The actuator handle 71 isretrieved from the CRIM-M Internal Storage Compartment 65 where it iscollapsed for storage. In order to activate/deactivate the experimentthe CRIM-M door 70 (not shown) must be opened and the foam insulation 67(not shown) temporarily removed. This allows the retainer door 266 to bevisible. There are eight slots 272 that are located on the retainer door266. Each slot 272 is labeled and contains a pivot 47 that extendsthrough the slot so that the actuator handle 71 can be used toactivate/deactivate the sample tray assembly 43. This allows for theease and flexibility of activating/deactivating the sample trayassemblies 43 individually. For clarity only one growth cell assembly 10is shown.

The actuator handle 71 is extended for leverage by loosening the lockingring 73. Once the actuator handle 71 is extended, the locking ring 73 istightened. The actuator handle 71 is ready to engage and secure thepivot 47 by snapping the actuator's clevis around the pivot hole 272.Once the pivot 47 is secured by the actuator handle 71, it is thenpushed to the left or right depending on the flight configuration. Theactuator handle 71 is then removed by pulling the actuator handle 71from the pivot 47. This has activated/deactivated one side of the sampletray assembly 43. The opposite side of the sample tray 43 isactivated/deactivated in the same manner and this sequence is repeatedfor the remaining three trays. Also shown is a latch assembly 69.

Once all of the sample tray assemblies 43 have beenactivated/deactivated, the locking ring 73 on the actuator handle 71 isloosened and pushed into the original position. The locking ring 73 istightened to secure the handle 71. The actuator handle 71 then is placedback into the CRIM-M Internal Storage compartment 65. The experiment isactivated/deactivated once all four trays have beenactivated/deactivated. For reference, in one specific example, 50° ofrotation on the pivot assembly 47 will correspond to 0.851″ of rack 46linear translation and 180° of rotation on the cell barrel 14 inside thegrowth cell assembly 10.

The CPCG-HDPCG experiment assembly includes the CRIM-M 63 and theinstalled stacked HDPCG tray assembly configuration 250. The SpaceShuttle Orbiter Middeck can be used as the payload carrier for thisapparatus. A payload mounting panel (PMP) will be used to mount theexperiment locker into the payload carrier location. This lockerconfiguration may be designed to be a cabin air breather. Payloads thatare located in the Orbitor Middeck may be in the following areas: (a)aft surface of wire trays of Avionics Bays 1 and 2, or (b) forwardsurface of wire trays of Avionics Bay 3A. Of course, the availability ofspecific locations for payload use may be subject to the amount ofducted and non-ducted air cooling, power required by the individualmiddeck payloads, mission profile and its length, the size of theOrbitor crew, and amount of crew equipment to be stowed in standardstowage lockers at these locations.

FIG. 6B illustrates the actuator handle 71 at various positions while inthe process of activating/deactivating an experiment. As the actuatorhandle 71 is rotated, the pivot assembly 47 rotates toactivate/deactivate the experiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 6A the HDPCG experiment is easily activated, ordeactivated by the use of a Activation/Deactivation Handle 68. Thehandle 68 can be retrieved from possible stowage within the C-RIM 62with installed HDPCG apparatus, as shown in FIG. 6B. In order toactivate/deactivate the experiment the C-RIM door 70 must be opened.This allows the retainer door 66 to be visible. There are 12 slots 72that are accessible on the retainer door 66. Each slot corresponds to atray 42 located within the HDPCG apparatus. This allows for the ease andflexibility of activating/deactivating a tray 42 individually.

FIG. 6C illustrates another embodiment of an activation/deactivationhandle 68. In order to activate the tray 42 the handle 68 is insertedthrough one of the slots 72. The handle 68 is then used to engage a pin(not shown) on the rack with a slot 74. The handle 68 has a pivot 76 andpivots on the retainer door 66 where it can be rotated 60° clockwise(CW) to activate the sample tray 42. The handle 68 will activate bothsides of the sample tray 42, one side at a time. The opposite side ofthe sample tray 42 is then activated by removing the handle 68 androtating it 180°. Once again the handle 68 is inserted through two ofthe slots 72 in order to activate the opposite side of the sample tray42. Once the pin 78 is engaged the handle is rotated 60°counterclockwise (CCW). This completes the activation sequence for thesample tray 42.

FIG. 6D illustrates the handle 68 in operation. The handle 68 is firstretrieved from stowage, then the C-RIM door 70 is opened and theretainer door 66 becomes visible. The handle 68 is inserted through theslots 72 on the retainer door 66 corresponding to the sample tray 42that is to be deactivated. Once the pin (not shown) on the rack isengaged, the handle 68 is rotated 120° CCW to deactivate. The oppositeside of the sample tray 42 is then deactivated by removing the handle 68and rotating it 180°. Once the pin 78 on the rack is engaged, the handleis rotated 120° CW to deactivate the opposite side of the sample tray42. This completes the deactivation sequence for the sample tray 42.

FIG. 7 illustrates another view of one embodiment of a High DensityProtein Crystal Growth growth cell assembly 10.

FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of a PPT reservoir 18 of the growthcell assembly 10, made from Molded Clear Polysulfone P1700 and, forexample having a fluid capacity of ½ milliliters. The PPT reservoir 40houses a CHROMEX barrier to contain the reservoir solution. CHROMEX isone example of a ultra high molecular weight polyethylene material.

FIG. 9 illustrates another view of one embodiment of a growth cellassembly 10 illustrating the hd access cap 38 which is designed inconjunction with the XCF CPPI for remote access by means of the hex headcap. Access to the protein insert is obtained by rotating the access cap38 45 degrees. The O-rings reside in the containment 36. The proteininsert 16 can be removed from the back without having to disassemble theentire block. Both the access cap 38 and protein insert 16 can be moldedfrom optical grade LEXAN for clarity.

FIG. 10A illustrates a sectional view of one embodiment of a growth cellassembly 10 in its fill/removal position. Note the position of theprotein insert 16.

FIG. 10B illustrates a sectional view of one embodiment of a singlegrowth cell assembly 210 in its fill/removal position. Note the positionof the protein insert 216. The single growth cell assembly 210 comprisesthe cell body 212, the cell barrel 214, protein insert 216, PPTreservoir 218, CHROMEX barrier 220, hex head access caps 222, O-ring 224and a spur gear 226.

FIG. 11A illustrates a sectional view of one embodiment of a growth cellassembly 10 in its growth position. Note that the position of theprotein insert 16 is opposite to that shown in FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11B illustrates a sectional view of one embodiment of a singlegrowth cell assembly 210 in its growth position. Note that the positionof the protein insert 216 is opposite to that shown in FIG. 10A.

FIGS. 12A-C illustrate various embodiments of a protein insert 16produced by LIGHTWAVE PRODUCTS. The protein insert 16 holds up to 50micro-liters, is made for example of optical grade LEXAN and includes atapered well 32 as determined by the KC-135 zero gravity test plane andis available in an optional molded version. The modified protein inserts16′ have a volume capacity of 20 microliters or less. Pinning edge 34will restrict drops from wicking up the walls while in micro-gravity.

FIG. 13 illustrates one embodiment of a growth cell assembly 10 in itslaunch configuration and corresponding launch G-Force vector 30.

Video Command and Monitoring System (VCMS) System Description

As part of the overall system, the present invention provides a VideoCommand and Monitoring System (VCMS) that is part of the second phase ofa three phase program for commercial protein crystal growth (CPCG). TheVCMS system will be used to evaluate protein crystal quality, size,location within HDPCG (CPCG-H) tray, and the potential for X-ray datacollection.

FIG. 15A illustrates one embodiment of a CPCG payload complementcomprising three components: a HDPCG stacked tray assembly 43 (CPCG-H),a VCMS—video & translation chassis 61 (CPCG-V) and a VCMS—controller 107(CPCG-C). The HDPCG tray assembly 43 and VCMS 61 payloads will reside inthermal carriers.

FIG. 15B illustrates another embodiment of a the VCMS chassis 106 thathouses the video camera assembly 118 and the HDPCG tray assembly 42during experiments. The chassis 106 further includes an X-Y stage withthe mounted video camera assembly 108, the X-Y stage including anX-stage stepper motor 112 and a Y-stage stepper motor 114. The X-Y stageassembly 108 indexes a translating camera assembly 118 utilizing a Ystage stepper motor 114 and an X stage stepper motor 112. The X and Ystage stepper motors 112, 114, respectively, are interfaced with theVCMS controller 84 via controller connectors 116. The system furtherprovides flexible cable routing that interfaces with a flex cable zeroinsertion force (ZIF) connector 110.

FIGS. 16A-F illustrate embodiments of the translating camera assembly118. Digitized images are down-linked to ground support equipment (GSE)for the scientists to observe. The video camera assembly 118 comprises alens assembly 132, light ring 134, video camera electronics 126,mounting assembly 124, a charge coupled device (CCD) head 128 andconnectors for printed circuit board (PCB) 130. One embodiment of how acamera is assembled is shown in FIG. 16B. The lens assembly 132 providesthe camera with a fixed focus image of the growth cell 10. The lightring 134 including 8 light emitting diodes 133 (LEDs) is attached to thebase of the lens assembly 132 to the lens body 131 to provide adequateillumination during video frame acquisition.

As illustrated in FIGS. 16A-B the translating video camera assembly 118comprises a mounting assembly 124 for mounting the camera assembly 118to the VCMS chassis 61 X-Y stage. The camera assembly 118 furtherincludes a Charge Coupled Device (CCD) head 128 and connectors forprinted circuit board (PCB) 130. The camera utilized in the preferredembodiment of the present invention is a Sony CCB-GC7YC color cardcamera detachable head with ⅓″ CCD 768×494 CCD elements integral DC/DCconverter, Y/C and composite outputs, 470 TV lines and 5 Lux sensitivityat F1.2.

The camera assembly 118 is mounted to the stage provided by the VCMSchassis 61 where it can translate in the X and Y directions, viamounting assembly 124. This translation allows for flexibility inviewing individual HDPCG growth cells 10 within the designated cellcoverage area 137 (FIG. 17). In one embodiment, a video camera growthcell 10 coverage area 137 is about 68% of the top side HDPCG tray 43.The video camera provides a high-resolution, color, Y/C signal to thecontroller's 107 electronic video capture hardware.

FIG. 16C illustrates the cell illumination light ring 134 attached tobase of the lens. The light ring 134 including the eight sleeve mountedconcentric white LED's 133 are manufactured by Sylvania LightingInternational model number CMD1224WC.

As illustrated in FIG. 16D the lens assembly 132 provides the camerawith a fixed focus image of the growth cell. On the base of the lensthere is a light ring that provides illumination during the videoprocess. The assembly 132 is mounted to the X-Y stage provided by thechassis 61 where it is capable of translating in the X and Y directions.This adds the flexibility of viewing individual HDPCG growth cellswithin the designated cell coverage area (FIG. 17). An example of a lensassembly 132 is one custom fabricated by Optem International andincludes a CS mount assembly 134, Edmund Scientific A45,207 lens 139that is achromatic coated with a ¼ Wave MgF₂ @550 nm, a 5 mm diameterand 15 mm focal length, and a Rolyn A32,623 Precision iris diaphragmincluding a 8.0-0.7 mm aperture and 8 blade blued spring steel.

Flexible circuits 120 and 122 illustrated in FIGS. 16E and 16F,respectively, reduce the overall size, weight and assembly costs of thedesign. Further, the flexible circuits 120, 122 increase the systemreliability, ease design (packaging in 3-dimensions), are mechanicallyrobust and provide excellent electrical properties, for example, lowstrip resistance and small channel-channel capacitance.

As illustrated in FIG. 17, the VCMS System is capable of translating thevideo camera assembly 118 and taking periodic “snap shots” of indicatedgrowth cells within an area of camera coverage 137 bounded by perimeter141.

As illustrated in FIG. 18, one embodiment of a VCMS chassis 61 is thestructure designed to house the video camera assembly 118 and the HDPCGtray assembly 43 during an experiment. The chassis 61 includes the X-Ystage with the mounted camera assembly 118, X-stage motor/encoder 112,Y-stage motor/encoder 114, controller connector 116, flex cableconnectors 110 linking the moving stages to the chassis, and installedHDPCG tray assembly 43. A sensor detects the presence of sample trays.This interlock is then used in the system software routines. Each end ofthe camera stage axes also has limit switches used in the softwarecontrol routines.

As illustrated in FIG. 19, one embodiment of a controller 107 issuitable for residing in an International Sub-rack Interface StandardDrawer (ISIS) 147. The VCMS 61 payload will include one Middeck LockerEquivalent (MLEs) containing hardware for protein crystal growthexperiment monitoring (CPCG-V) and one experiment ISIS Drawer 147(CPCG-C) containing control electronics 143. The VCMS is used inconjunction with the HDPCG flight assembly. The VCMS will occupy oneHDPCG tray at a given time, but the VCMS has the versatility ofinterchanging HDPCG Trays whenever scheduled or requested.

In one embodiment, a VCMS controller 107 contains the system electronics143. The controller has five primary functions that include:translation, video capture, disk storage, health and status, andcommunications. The controller 107 may be located in a four-panel unit(4PU) EXPRESS Rack ISIS drawer 147. The components are mounted to themodified baseplate of the drawer 147. The controller 107 will utilizethe EXPRESS Rack internal air volume to reject heat from the VCMScontroller 107. The ISIS drawer 146 is outfitted with a fan andappropriate air intake ventilation holes 149 to accomplish this heatrejection through the air exhaust vent 145. The VCMS controller 107 ismonitored by both the software and hardware components. The CPCG-Csystem temperature(s) and system current(s) are monitored to determinethe state of the electronics. Likewise, the hardware monitors vitalsystem indicators to determine and control the state of the system.

The following hardware sub-assemblies make up the VCMS controller. AnIntel 80486-based Single Board Computer (SBC) is the central processingunit. Attached to the SBC's PC/104 bus are a stepper motor controllercard, an encoder feedback card, a video capture card, an analog todigital input output card, a Personal Computer Memory Card InternationalAssociation (PCMCIA) solid state memory card, hard disk drive, and twoDC/DC converter cards.

The VCMS controller 107 performs external communications through anEthernet interface in the rear of the ISIS drawer 147. VCMS Health andStatus (H&S) and all the down-link data passes through this interface.The Controller 107 is linked to the VCMS chassis 61 through a frontpanel cable. Secondary electrical supply voltages, control signals, andhigh-resolution Y/C video signals are routed through this cable.

The VCMS payload software will provide control of all phases of theexperiment and requires limited crew involvement. The crew involvementwill be required during initial experiment setup and activation,periodic status monitoring, experiment deactivation, and off-nominalactivities. The VCMS payload software contains an applicable programinterface to initiate, control, and monitor data acquisition from theexperiment. Additionally, the VCMS payload software will manage dataflow between the VCMS payload and the external interfaces. The majorfunctions of the VCMS payload control software may include thefollowing:

1. Provides for video data capture and storage of the payload;

2. Stores experiment data to disk;

3. Communicates with external computers;

4. Monitors system health/status;

5. Implements the periodic scan profiles for the HDPCG growth cellsbased upon the mask file;

6. Controls camera positioning system;

7. Monitors hardware items; and

8. Buffers experiment data.

FIGS. 29A-B illustrate one embodiment of an express rack HDPCG/VCMSconfiguration. The HDPCG 250, VCMS chassis 61 and VCMS controller 107experiment assemblies will utilize an EXPRESS Rack 150 (FIG. 29) in oneConfiguration. The thermal carriers for HDPCG and VCMS will utilize +28Vpower and RS422 communications on the rack front view (FIG. 29A). Thecable from the VCMS controller 107 to the VCMS chassis 61 is illustratedin the front view of FIG. 29A. There are several connections locatedwithin the back of the EXPRESS rack 150. The ISIS drawer +28V power andEthernet connections from the EXPRESS Rack 150 are routed as illustratedin the back view of FIG. 29B.

FIG. 14 illustrates one embodiment of a block diagram of the VCMScontroller 107 which contains the electronics for the system. Thecontroller 107 may include five primary functions such as translation,illumination, video capture, disk storage and communications. It islocated in an EXPRESS Rack ISIS drawer 147 where it is mounted to amodified base-plate. It utilizes the EXPRESS ISIS avionics air coolingloop to reject heat from the VCMS controller 107.

The HDPCG 43 and VCMS 61 experiment assemblies can utilize the EXPRESSRack 150. The HDPCG 43 and VCMS 61 experiment assemblies utilize a hostpower supply 82 and the RS422 connections on the front of the rack.There is also a chassis connection to the VCMS 61 from the ISIS drawerand several connections that are located on the back of the rack. Theseare illustrated in FIGS. 29A-B. The ISIS drawer 147 utilizes a +28 Vpower source, Ethernet and analog (to SSPCM) connections from theEXPRESS rack.

The VCMS controller 107 is a self contained electronics box mounted in a4 panel unit (PU) EXPRESS ISIS drawer 147. Heat is rejected via EXPRESSISIS avionics air loop portion of the internal cooling loop 88. VCMScontroller 84 further includes a small computer systems interface (SCSI)86 drive for local electronic mass data storage and a stackable PC/104expansion bus 90. The VCMS controller 107 communicates with peripheraldevices via Ethernet communications on Ethernet bus 104 with the EXPRESSRack interface controller 96 (RIC) and the EXPRESS Rack crew interfaceport (CIP) 102. The controller 107 interfaces with an RS422communications interface 100 with thermal carrier. RS232 communications94 is provided between the controller 84 and the GSE or Shuttle PGSC 92.It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that thecommunications system may communicate digitized video images from aspace station to a ground based station and form one ground basedstation to another ground based station.

The PC/104 bus 90 may be utilized for all computer boards such asMicroprocessor (Ampro Computers, Inc.), Video Capture (Ajeco Oy, Inc.),Stepper Motor Controller (Technology 80, Inc.), Encoder Controller(Technology 80, Inc.), Stepper Motor Driver (UAB in-house design), DC-DCConverter (Tri-M Systems, Inc.) and Mass Storage (Seagate Technology,Inc.).

The microprocessor module (Ampro Littleboard 468I) includes an Intel80486DX4 100 MHz CPU and 32 MB Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM). Themicroprocessor module is highly integrated and further includes fourbuffered serial ports, an Ethernet LAN interface and an SCSI-II businterface. The microprocessor module also includes embedded featuressuch as: bootable solid state disk support, watchdog timer and powerfailnon-maskable interrupt (NMI), extended temperature operation, advancedpower management functions and locking I/O connectors.

The video capture unit, Ajeco ANDI-FG, includes a Motorola 27 MHzDSP56001A digital signal processor, three 75 Ω software selectable videoinputs, 640×525 digital resolution in NTSC, Y/C and composite video,eight bit A/D converter, 29.5 MHz sampling, JPEG format image upload andprogramming libraries in “C.”

The Stepper Motor Controller may be a Tech 80 Model 5936, which includesthree axes of intelligent control, directional velocity profiling, home,positive limit, and general purpose switch inputs andsoftware-accessible functions that further include number of steps, lowspeed rate, high speed rate, acceleration/deceleration rate and amp-downpoint.

The Encoder Controller, a Tech 80 Model 5612, includes four incrementalquadrature encoder inputs, three stage digital filter, softwareselectable filter clock 165.25 kHz to 10 MHz, 24-bit counter for eachencoder and maskable PC/104 bus interrupt generation.

The Voltage Mode Stepper Motor Driver is PC/104 bus compatible andamplifies TTL level signals from the stepper controller 12VDC output,motor direction and motor speed. The driver further controls the cameraillumination LED on/off switching by LED fusing and LED currentlimiting.

The DC-DC converter, a Tri-M Systems HE104-512-TAC, includes up to 50 Wfiltered power for VCMS electrical systems, PC/104 compatible designwith active bus signal termination, load dump and transient noisesuppression on input, logic level remote shutdown, +5VDC @ 10 A output,+12VDC @ 2 A output, 6-40VDC input, <20 mVpp ripple, <60 mV loadregulation, <40 mV line regulation and up to 95% efficiency.

The mass storage unit, a Seagate Barracuda 9.1 Giga Byte model seriesthat has been utilized in several NASA flights, includes 10 disks, 20magneto resistive heads, 20 MB/sec maximum transfer rate, 512 kBmultisegmented cache, 8.0/9.5 msec average seek, R/W, 4.17 msec averagelatency, 7,200 rpm spindle speed, 8-bit UltraSCSI interface, embeddedservo control and has a 1,000,000 Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF).

One embodiment of a stepper motor 114 as illustrated in FIG. 20A is aMicroMo Stepping Gearmotor AM1524 that includes 24 steps perrevolution >15 degree step angle, voltage mode motor, 12VDC operation, 6mNn (0.85 oz-in.) holding torque, 3.71:1 reduction gear (x-axis).

One embodiment of an encoder 135 as illustrated in FIG. 20B is a MicroMoSeries HE that includes a magnetic mechanism, square wave output,TTL/CMOS output, 2 channels and 90 degree phase shift.

Nominal and reduced system power required by the system are illustratedin Table 1, as follows:

TABLE 1 Reduced Device Nominal Power, W Power, W LB 4861 CPU 13 2.6ANDI-FG VIDEO CAPTURE 2.55 1.2 5936 STEPPER 3.5 1.8 CONTROLLER 5912ENCODER 0.005 NA CONTROLLER TRANSLATION AMP. (ea.) 0.348 NA HE104 DC/DCCONVERTER 0.056 NA BARRACUDA HARD 12.4 4 DRIVE ENCODER (ea.) 0.025 NASTEPPER MOTORS (ea.) 0.174 NA/OFF CAMERA/LIGHTING 0.5 NA CONTROL VIDEOCAMERA 2.16 NA/OFF LIGHTING (ea.) 0.125 NA/OFF TOTAL 34.8 10.2

The VCMS controller 107 functions can be grouped into five distinctcategories including translation, illumination, video capture, diskstorage and communication. Each category enables varying levels of powermanagement though software and hardware functions.

FIG. 21 illustrates one embodiment of a VCMS context diagram.

FIG. 22 illustrates one embodiment of a VCMS IOS CSC diagram.

FIG. 23 illustrates one embodiment of a VCMS IOS.

FIG. 24 illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of a VCMScontroller.

FIG. 25 illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of a VCMScontroller.

FIGS. 26 and 27 illustrate a flow diagram of one embodiment of aHDPCG/VCMS Operational Scenario.

The operational scenario is divided in five separate tasks follows:

Task I (Protein Candidate Database)

A database where protein candidates can be entered by the scientist.This database may include: protein name, co-investigator, number ofsamples, specifics such as volume size, growth rates and missionsequence and timeline.

Task II (Flight Protein Database)

The final flight configuration. When a growth cell block is completelyfull and ready to be placed into the tray, a bar code label is placed onthe block. The bar code should reference a database which is generatedabove, but in addition includes: location of sample, actual percentconcentrations and volumes loaded, time of loading, protein code writtenon cap of cell, and comment lines.

Task III (Command and Control of VCMS)

The VCMS will perform the following operations while on ISS:Automatically scan all the viewable cells on a given tray twice dailyand take a “snap shot”; store the digitized “snap shot” until it can bedownlinked; place the images into a name specific file that can beinterpreted on the ground as being a specific protein, and store theimage with the file generated with Task I; move to a particular positionand take a “snap shot” when given a command from the ground or by a crewmember; capture the image and compress it using the best compressionalgorithms available possible with the given hardware; transfer healthand status data from the NGTC to the EXPRESS Rack and eventually attachtemperature data with the images for the database; and encryption ofimages before placing into the packet of data to be down-linked.

Task IV (Ground Based Operations)

The ground based system will have to do the following: receive the datapacket, for example from the Marshall Space Flight Center (NSFC) anddirect the images to their particular file; manage the large amount ofdata that will be received and place it on some type of media fortransfer back to the Co-Investigators; and send requests to the MSFC(off nominal operations).

Task V (Post Flight Evaluations)

The post flight database will include information taken from theprevious tasks and include: temperature data of the entire mission;digitized post flight analysis images, flight duration time; andcomments during analysis.

FIG. 28 illustrates one embodiment of a code designation system.

The foregoing description of the specific embodiments of the inventionhas been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. Itis not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to theprecise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possiblein light of the above teaching. It is intended that the scope of theinvention be limited not with this description, but rather by the claimsappended hereto.

The claimed invention is:
 1. A protein crystal growth assembly,comprising: a crystal growth cell, comprising, a cell body having a topside and a bottom side and a first aperture defined therethrough, saidcell body having opposed first and second sides and a second aperturedefined therethrough; a cell barrel disposed within said cell body, saidcell barrel defining a cavity alignable with the first aperture of saidcell body, said cell barrel being rotatable within the second aperture;a reservoir coupled to the bottom side of said cell body; a cap having atop side disposed on the top side of said cell body; and a rotatingmechanism disposed in said cell body and coupled to said cell barrel,the rotating mechanism rotating said cell barrel within the secondaperture of said cell body, wherein the rotating mechanism comprises agear.
 2. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 1, whereinthe gear is a spur gear.
 3. A protein crystal growth assembly accordingto claim 1, further comprising a sealing member disposed on the top sideof said cell body.
 4. A protein crystal growth assembly according toclaim 3, wherein said sealing member has an annular shape and is formedof a resilient material.
 5. A protein crystal growth assembly accordingto claim 3, wherein said sealing member provides a seal for isolatingsaid growth cell from a local environment.
 6. A protein crystal growthassembly according to claim 5, wherein the local environment is amicro-gravity environment.
 7. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 5, wherein the local environment is about a 1 Genvironment.
 8. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 1,further comprising a plurality of sealing members disposed on the topside of said cell body.
 9. A protein crystal growth assembly accordingto claim 8, wherein each of said plurality of sealing members have anannular shape and is formed of a resilient material.
 10. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 1, wherein said cap is formedof an optically clear material.
 11. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 10, wherein said optically clear material is apolycarbonate material.
 12. A protein crystal growth assembly accordingto claim 1, further comprising a plurality of protein crystal growthcells disposed adjacent to said protein growth cell in a spaced apartrelationship along a common axis of the second aperture.
 13. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 12, wherein said proteincrystal growth assembly includes six protein growth cells.
 14. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 12, wherein said plurality ofgrowth cells are isolated from each other.
 15. A protein crystal growthassembly according to claim 14, further comprising a sealing memberdisposed between each of the plurality of said growth cells, wherein thesealing members isolate said growth cells one from the other.
 16. Aprotein crystal growth assembly according to claim 15, wherein each ofsaid sealing members has an annular shape and is formed of a resilientmaterial.
 17. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 1,wherein said reservoir defines a volume of about ½ milliliters.
 18. Aprotein crystal growth assembly according to claim 1, further comprisinga protein cell insert disposed within the cavity defined by said cellbarrel, said protein insert defining a well-like chamber, having an openend and a closed end, the chamber having an inner portion and an outerportion.
 19. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 18,wherein said cell insert further comprises a sealing surface formed onthe open end of the cavity.
 20. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 19, wherein the sealing surface of said insertdefines a pinning angle of about 90 degrees.
 21. A protein crystalgrowth assembly according to claim 18, wherein the inner portion of saidcell insert defines a tapered well-like chamber.
 22. A protein crystalgrowth assembly according to claim 21, wherein the inner portion of saidinsert defines about a 6 degree tapered well.
 23. A protein crystalgrowth assembly according to claim 18, wherein the inner portion of thewell of said cell insert is formed with a high surface finish forfacilitating harvesting a protein crystal growth within said cellinsert.
 24. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 23,wherein the inner portion of the well of said cell insert defines avolume of about 10 to 50 microliters.
 25. A protein crystal growthassembly according to claim 23, wherein said protein cell insert isformed of an optically clear material.
 26. A protein crystal growthassembly according to claim 23, constructed such that a protein crystalgrowth experiment within said cell insert is activated/deactivated byrotating said cell barrel.
 27. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 23, constructed such that a protein crystal disposedwithin said cell insert is sealed within said cell growth assembly byrotating said cell barrel to a predetermined position.
 28. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 18, wherein a protein crystalgrowing within said cell insert is optically viewable through said cap.29. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 18, wherein aprotein crystal growing within said cell insert is accessible throughsaid cap.
 30. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 1,wherein the top side of said cap defines a hex pattern.
 31. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 1, wherein said reservoircomprises a barrier for preventing solutions contained therein fromexiting and contacting a protein sample within said cell insert whenexposed to any one of a space shuttle launch environment, space stationenvironment, a micro-gravity environment and about a 1 G environment.32. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 31, wherein thebarrier is formed of a ultra high molecular weight polyethylenematerial.
 33. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 32,wherein the ultra high molecular weight polyethylene material comprisesCHROMEX.
 34. A protein crystal growth assembly, comprising: a crystalgrowth cell, comprising, a cell body having a top side and a bottom sideand a first aperture defined therethrough, said cell body having opposedfirst and second sides and a second aperture defined therethrough; acell barrel disposed within said cell body, said cell barrel defining acavity alignable with the first aperture of said cell body, said cellbarrel being rotatable within the second aperture; a reservoir coupledto the bottom side of said cell body; a cap having a top side disposedon the top side of said cell body; and a protein cell insert disposedwithin the cavity defined by said cell barrel, said protein insertdefining a well-like chamber, having an open end and a closed end, thechamber having an inner portion and an outer portion.
 35. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 34, further comprising arotating mechanism disposed in said cell body and coupled to said cellbarrel, the rotating mechanism rotating said cell barrel within thesecond aperture of said cell body.
 36. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 35, wherein the rotating mechanism comprises a gear.37. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 36, wherein thegear is a spur gear.
 38. A protein crystal growth assembly according toclaim 34, wherein said cell insert further comprises a sealing surfaceformed on the open end of the insert.
 39. A protein crystal growthassembly according to claim 38, wherein the sealing surface of saidinsert defines a pinning angle of about 90 degrees.
 40. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 34, wherein the inner portionof said cell insert defines a tapered well-like chamber.
 41. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 40, wherein the inner portionof said insert defines about a 6 degree tapered well.
 42. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 34, wherein the inner portionof the well of said cell insert is formed with a high surface finish forfacilitating harvesting a protein crystal growth within said cellinsert.
 43. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 34,wherein the inner portion of the well of said cell insert defines avolume of about 10 to 50 microliters.
 44. A protein crystal growthassembly according to claim 34, wherein said protein cell insert isformed of an optically clear material.
 45. A protein crystal growthassembly according to claim 34, constructed such that a protein crystalgrowth experiment within said cell insert is activated/deactivated byrotating said cell barrel.
 46. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 34, constructed such that a protein crystal disposedwithin said cell insert is sealed within said cell growth assembly byrotating said cell barrel to a predetermined position.
 47. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 34, wherein a protein crystalgrowing within said cell insert is optically viewable through said cap.48. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 34, wherein aprotein crystal growing within said cell insert is accessible throughsaid cap.
 49. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 34,further comprising a sealing member disposed on the top side of saidcell body.
 50. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 49,wherein said sealing member has an annular shape and is formed of aresilient material.
 51. A protein crystal growth assembly according toclaim 49, wherein said sealing member provides a seal for isolating saidgrowth cell from a local environment.
 52. A protein crystal growthassembly according to claim 51, wherein the local environment is amicro-gravity environment.
 53. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 51, wherein the local environment is about a 1 Genvironment.
 54. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim34, further comprising a plurality of sealing members disposed on thetop side of said cell body.
 55. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 54, wherein each of said plurality of sealing membershave an annular shape and is formed of a resilient material.
 56. Aprotein crystal growth assembly according to claim 34, wherein the topside of said cap defines a hex pattern.
 57. A protein crystal growthassembly according to claim 34, wherein said cap is formed of anoptically clear material.
 58. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 57, wherein said optically clear material is apolycarbonate material.
 59. A protein crystal growth assembly accordingto claim 34, farther comprising a plurality of protein crystal growthcells disposed adjacent to said protein growth cell in a spaced apartrelationship along a common axis of the second aperture.
 60. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 59, wherein said proteincrystal growth assembly includes six protein growth cells.
 61. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 60, wherein said plurality ofgrowth cells are isolated from each other.
 62. A protein crystal growthassembly according to claim 61, further comprising a sealing memberdisposed between each of the plurality of said growth cells, wherein thesealing members isolate said growth cells one from the other.
 63. Aprotein crystal growth assembly according to claim 62, wherein each ofsaid sealing members has an annular shape and is formed of a resilientmaterial.
 64. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 34,wherein said reservoir comprises a barrier for preventing solutionscontained therein from exiting and contacting a protein sample withinsaid cell insert when exposed to any one of a space shuttle launchenvironment, space station environment, a micro-gravity environment andabout a 1 G environment.
 65. A protein crystal growth assembly accordingto claim 64, wherein the barrier is formed of a ultra high molecularweight polyethylene material.
 66. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 65, wherein the ultra high molecular weightpolyethylene material comprises CHROMEX.
 67. A protein crystal growthassembly according to claim 34, wherein said reservoir defines a volumeof about ½ milliliters.
 68. A protein crystal growth assembly,comprising: a crystal growth cell, comprising, a cell body having a topside and a bottom side and a first aperture defined therethrough, saidcell body having opposed first and second sides and a second aperturedefined therethrough; a cell barrel disposed within said cell body, saidcell barrel defining a cavity alignable with the first aperture of saidcell body, said cell barrel being rotatable within the second aperture;a reservoir coupled to the bottom side of said cell body; and a caphaving a top side disposed on the top side of said cell body, whereinthe top side of said cap defines a hex pattern.
 69. A protein crystalgrowth assembly according to claim 68, further comprising a rotatingmechanism disposed in said cell body and coupled to said cell barrel,the rotating mechanism rotating said cell barrel within the secondaperture of said cell body.
 70. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 69, wherein the rotating mechanism comprises a gear.71. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 70, wherein thegear is a spur gear.
 72. A protein crystal growth assembly according toclaim 68, further comprising a protein cell insert disposed within thecavity defined by said cell barrel, said protein insert defining awell-like chamber, having an open end and a closed end, the chamberhaving an inner portion and an outer portion.
 73. A protein crystalgrowth assembly according to claim 72, wherein said cell insert furthercomprises a sealing surface formed on the open end of the cavity.
 74. Aprotein crystal growth assembly according to claim 73, wherein thesealing surface of said insert defines a pinning angle of about 90degrees.
 75. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 72,wherein the inner portion of said cell insert defines a taperedwell-like chamber.
 76. A protein crystal growth assembly according toclaim 75, wherein the inner portion of said insert defines about a 6degree tapered well.
 77. A protein crystal growth assembly according toclaim 72, wherein the inner portion of the well of said cell insert isformed with a high surface finish for facilitating harvesting a proteincrystal growth within said cell insert.
 78. A protein crystal growthassembly according to claim 72, wherein the inner portion of the well ofsaid cell insert defines a volume of about 10 to 50 microliters.
 79. Aprotein crystal growth assembly according to claim 72, wherein saidprotein cell insert is formed of an optically clear material.
 80. Aprotein crystal growth assembly according to claim 72, constructed suchthat a protein crystal growth experiment within said cell insert isactivated/deactivated by rotating said cell barrel.
 81. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 72, constructed such that aprotein crystal disposed within said cell insert is sealed within saidcell growth assembly by rotating said cell barrel to a predeterminedposition.
 82. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 72,wherein a protein crystal growing within said cell insert is opticallyviewable through said cap.
 83. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 72, wherein a protein crystal growing within saidcell insert is accessible through said cap.
 84. A protein crystal growthassembly according to claim 68, further comprising a sealing memberdisposed on the top side of said cell body.
 85. A protein crystal growthassembly according to claim 84, wherein said sealing member has anannular shape and is formed of a resilient material.
 86. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 84, wherein said sealingmember provides a seal for isolating said growth cell from a localenvironment.
 87. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim86, wherein the local environment is a micro-gravity environment.
 88. Aprotein crystal growth assembly according to claim 86, wherein the localenvironment is about a 1 G environment.
 89. A protein crystal growthassembly according to claim 68, further comprising a plurality ofsealing members disposed on the top side of said cell body.
 90. Aprotein crystal growth assembly according to claim 89, wherein each ofsaid plurality of sealing members have an annular shape and is formed ofa resilient material.
 91. A protein crystal growth assembly according toclaim 68, wherein said cap is formed of an optically clear material. 92.A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 91, wherein saidoptically clear material is a polycarbonate material.
 93. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 68, further comprising aplurality of protein crystal growth cells disposed adjacent to saidprotein growth cell in a spaced apart relationship along a common axisof the second aperture.
 94. A protein crystal growth assembly accordingto claim 93, wherein said protein crystal growth assembly includes sixprotein growth cells.
 95. A protein crystal growth assembly according toclaim 93, wherein said plurality of growth cells are isolated from eachother.
 96. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 95,further comprising a sealing member disposed between each of theplurality of said growth cells, wherein the sealing members isolate saidgrowth cells one from the other.
 97. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 96, wherein each of said sealing members has anannular shape and is formed of a resilient material.
 98. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 68, wherein said reservoircomprises a barrier for preventing solutions contained therein fromexiting and contacting a protein sample within said cell insert whenexposed to any one of a space shuttle launch environment, space stationenvironment, a micro-gravity environment and about a 1 G environment.99. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 98, wherein thebarrier is formed of a ultra high molecular weight polyethylenematerial.
 100. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 99,wherein the ultra high molecular weight polyethylene material comprisesCHROMEX.
 101. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 68,wherein said reservoir defines a volume of about ½ milliliters.
 102. Aprotein crystal growth assembly, comprising: a crystal growth cell,comprising, a cell body having a top side and a bottom side and a firstaperture defined therethrough, said cell body having opposed first andsecond sides and a second aperture defined therethrough; a cell barreldisposed within said cell body, said cell barrel defining a cavityalignable with the first aperture of said cell body, said cell barrelbeing rotatable within the second aperture; a reservoir coupled to thebottom side of said cell body; a cap having a top side disposed on thetop side of said cell body; and a protein cell insert disposed withinthe cavity defined by said cell barrel, said protein insert defining awell-like chamber, having an open end and a closed end, the chamberhaving an inner portion and an outer portion, wherein said reservoircomprises a barrier for preventing solutions contained therein fromexiting and contacting a protein sample within said cell insert whenexposed to any one of a space shuttle launch environment, space stationenvironment, a micro-gravity environment and about a 1 G environment.103. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 102, whereinthe barrier is formed of a ultra high molecular weight polyethylenematerial.
 104. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 103,wherein the ultra high molecular weight polyethylene material comprisesCHROMEX.
 105. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 102,further comprising a rotating mechanism disposed in said cell body andcoupled to said cell barrel, the rotating mechanism rotating said cellbarrel within the second aperture of said cell body.
 106. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 105, wherein the rotatingmechanism comprises a gear.
 107. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 106, wherein the gear is a spur gear.
 108. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 62, wherein said cell insertfurther comprises a sealing surface formed on the open end of thecavity.
 109. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 108,wherein the sealing surface of said insert defines a pinning angle ofabout 90 degrees.
 110. A protein crystal growth assembly according toclaim 102, wherein the inner portion of said cell insert defines atapered well-like chamber.
 111. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 110, wherein the inner portion of said insert definesabout a 6 degree tapered well.
 112. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 102, wherein the inner portion of the well of saidcell insert is formed with a high surface finish for facilitatingharvesting a protein crystal growth within said cell insert.
 113. Aprotein crystal growth assembly according to claim 102, wherein theinner portion of the well of said cell insert defines a volume of about10 to 50 microliters.
 114. A protein crystal growth assembly accordingto claim 102, wherein said protein cell insert is formed of an opticallyclear material.
 115. A protein crystal growth assembly according toclaim 102, constructed such that a protein crystal growth experimentwithin said cell insert is activated/deactivated by rotating said cellbarrel.
 116. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 102,constructed such that a protein crystal disposed within said cell insertis sealed within said cell growth assembly by rotating said cell barrelto a predetermined position.
 117. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 102, further comprising a sealing member disposed onthe top side of said cell body.
 118. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 102, wherein said sealing member has an annular shapeand is formed of a resilient material.
 119. A protein crystal growthassembly according to claim 117, wherein said sealing member provides aseal for isolating said growth cell from a local environment.
 120. Aprotein crystal growth assembly according to claim 119, wherein thelocal environment is a micro-gravity environment.
 121. A protein crystalgrowth assembly according to claim 119, wherein the local environment isabout a 1 G environment.
 122. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 102, further comprising a plurality of sealingmembers disposed on the top side of said cell body.
 123. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 122, wherein each of saidplurality of sealing members have an annular shape and is formed of aresilient material.
 124. A protein crystal growth assembly according toclaim 102, wherein the top side of said cap defines a hex pattern. 125.A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 102, wherein saidcap is formed of an optically clear material.
 126. A protein crystalgrowth assembly according to claim 125, wherein said optically clearmaterial is a polycarbonate material.
 127. A protein crystal growthassembly according to claim 102, wherein a protein crystal growingwithin said cell insert is optically viewable through said cap.
 128. Aprotein crystal growth assembly according to claim 102, wherein aprotein crystal growing within said cell insert is accessible throughsaid cap.
 129. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 102,further comprising a plurality of protein crystal growth cells disposedadjacent to said protein growth cell in a spaced apart relationshipalong a common axis of the second aperture.
 130. A protein crystalgrowth assembly according to claim 129, wherein said protein crystalgrowth assembly includes six protein growth cells.
 131. A proteincrystal growth assembly according to claim 129, wherein said pluralityof growth cells are isolated from each other.
 132. A protein crystalgrowth assembly according to claim 131, further comprising a sealingmember disposed between each of the plurality of said growth cells,wherein the sealing members isolate said growth cells one from theother.
 133. A protein crystal growth assembly according to claim 132,wherein each of said sealing members has an annular shape and is formedof a resilient material.
 134. A protein crystal growth assemblyaccording to claim 102, wherein said reservoir defines a volume of about½ milliliters.